Ceiling fan kit

ABSTRACT

A kit or assembly for a ceiling fan can include a downrod and a set of electrical wires. The downrod can include a sidewall defining an interior. An opening can be provided in the sidewall for accessing the interior. The set of electrical wires can extend through the interior of the downrod, having first and second sets of wire tips, and can be longer than the downrod. An optional electrical connector can be provided on one of the first or second sets of wire tips.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. application Ser. No.15/583,433, filed May 1, 2017, now pending, which claims the benefit ofU.S. application Ser. No. 14/883,975, filed Oct. 15, 2015, now issued asU.S. Pat. No. 9,664,197, which claims benefit U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/064,606 filed Oct. 16, 2014, and U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/165,338, filed May 22, 2015, all of which areincorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, ceiling fan installation is laborious, time consuming andoften a cumbersome practice. The conventional ceiling fan includes astructure mount or ceiling plate, which secures to an electric outletbox by passing the lead wires of the outlet box through a centralopening in the structure mount. Mounting screws pass through twoelongated openings in the structure mount to threadably engage with twothreaded holes diagonally separated from each other on the periphery ofthe outlet box. Alternatively, wood screws pass through the structuremount and the outlet box and into the building structure supporting theoutlet box. In either event, the screws tighten until the structuremount securely couples to the structure or outlet box.

A typical ceiling fan assembly comprises a motor, a motor housing, aplurality of fan blades, a canopy, and an optional light assembly, whichsecures to the ceiling plate or structure mount by a downrod or a hangerrod. The downrod passes through a central opening in the canopy. One endof the downrod couples to a downrod coupler for mounting to thestructure mount while the opposite end of the downrod mounts to theceiling fan assembly, utilizing a motor coupler. A ball attaches to thedownrod coupler and is received in a seat formed in the structure mount,mounting the ceiling fan assembly to the structure mount, and thus theceiling fan to the ceiling.

Traditionally, ceiling fans are sold with a single mounting style basedon ceiling height, being either a low-profile mount, a normal profilemount, or a high or angled profile mount. Each mounting style attachesthe ceiling fan either closer to or further from the ceiling based uponthe height of the ceiling. For example, a low ceiling, being less than 8feet tall will utilize a low-profile mount, mounting the fan close tothe ceiling. Conversely, a high ceiling, being greater than ten feettall will utilize a high profile mount, mounting the fan further fromthe ceiling.

Structure electrical wires extending through the ceiling to thestructure mount connect to the fan electrical wires, which normallyextend from the fan motor to a position adjacent the structure mount.Connecting the electrical wires is a time consuming and cumbersomepractice, involving: (1) threading electrical wires through the variousparts of the ceiling fan assembly, often including a downrod; (2)cutting and stripping the fan wires per manufacturer's instruction; (3)joining the structure electrical wires to the fan electrical wires byusing wire connectors, such as wire nuts, per manufacturer'sinstructions, which may include both single and dual wall switch wiringinstructions; (4) securing the wire connectors with electrical tape; and(5) tucking wires into the electrical box ensuring the live wires andground wires are on opposite sides of the electrical box.

Cutting, stripping, and joining the wires during fan installation isoften the most cumbersome task of the process. Typically, a ceiling fanmanufacturer provides the fan electrical wires with a length sufficientto allow them to couple with the structure electrical wires according tothe length of the downrod. The fan electrical wire length, which iscommonly fifty-four to seventy-eight inches, is typically enough tomount the ceiling fan to a relatively tall ceiling. However, if theceiling fan mounts to a relatively short ceiling, the installer must cutthe fan electrical wires to an appropriate length. Furthermore, if fanelectrical wires are included for a short ceiling fan, installation on ataller ceiling requires the connection of additional wiring to reach thestructure electrical wires in the area of the structure mount.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In one aspect, the disclosure relates to an accessory downrod assemblyfor connecting a ceiling fan to a ceiling mount including a downrodhaving a sidewall defining an interior extending between a first endconfigured to couple to the ceiling mount and a second end configured tocouple to the ceiling fan. A set of electrical wires at least as long asthe downrod have first wires tips and second wire tips with the set ofelectrical wires extending along the interior of the downrod.

In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a downrod kit forconnecting a ceiling fan to a ceiling mount including a downrod with asidewall defining an interior and extending between a first end and asecond end. The kit further includes a set of electrical wires at leastas long as the downrod.

In yet another aspect, the disclosure relates to a downrod assembly fora ceiling fan including a downrod with a sidewall defining an interiorwith at least one opening in the sidewall, having the downrod extendingbetween a first end and a second end. A set of electrical wires havingat least a first set of wire tips extend through the interior of thedownrod and terminate exterior of the first end and the second end. Afirst electrical connector is coupled to the first set of wire tips.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a push-in connector.

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the push-in connector of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 illustrates a side view of the push-in connector rotated ninetydegrees from the view of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 illustrates the internal components of the push-in connector ofFIG. 1 taken about the cross-section IV-IV of FIG. 8.

FIG. 5 illustrates the push-in connector separated into a plug andsocket component.

FIG. 6 illustrates a proximal end of the plug portion of the push-inconnector.

FIG. 7 illustrates a proximal end of the socket portion of the push-inconnector.

FIG. 8 illustrates a distal end of the socket for the fan side ports ofthe push-in connector.

FIG. 9 illustrates a distal end of the plug for the structure side portsof the push-in connector.

FIG. 10 illustrates a schematic side view of the push-in connector.

FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic view of the fan side ports on the distalend of the socket.

FIG. 12 illustrates a schematic view of the structure side ports on thedistal end of the plug.

FIG. 13 illustrates a schematic view of a fan assembly wired in a singleswitch wiring scenario.

FIG. 14 illustrates a schematic view of a fan assembly wired in a dualswitch wiring scenario.

FIG. 15 illustrates a schematic view of a fan assembly with two push-inconnectors electrically connecting the fan assembly to a structurethrough a pre-wired downrod, in a single switch wiring scenario.

FIG. 16 illustrates a schematic view of a fan assembly with two push-inconnectors electrically connecting the fan assembly to a structurethrough a pre-wired downrod, in a dual switch wiring scenario.

FIG. 17 illustrates a schematic view of a fan assembly with two push-inconnectors electrically connecting the fan assembly to a structure,while interconnecting a receiver.

FIG. 18 illustrates an installation coupling the ceiling fan assemblywith the structure using a non-pre-wired downrod with one push-inconnector.

FIG. 19 illustrates an installation coupling the ceiling fan assemblywith the structure using a pre-wired downrod with two push-inconnectors.

FIG. 20 illustrates an installation coupling the ceiling fan assemblywith the structure using a pre-wired downrod with one push-in connectorand wire nuts.

FIG. 21 illustrates a perspective view of a pre-wired ceiling fandownrod.

FIG. 22 illustrates an exploded view of the pre-wired downrod with onepush-in connector of FIG. 21.

FIG. 23 illustrates an exploded view of the pre-wired downrod of FIG. 21with two push-in connectors.

FIG. 24 illustrates an exploded view of ceiling fan elements comprisinga kit with multiple pre-wired downrods.

FIG. 25 illustrates an exploded view of ceiling fan elements comprisinga kit with multiple canopies and multiple pre-wired downrods.

FIG. 26 illustrates a perspective view of an alternative embodiment ofthe push-in connector of FIG. 1.

FIG. 27 illustrates the opposite end of the push-in connector of FIG.26.

FIG. 28 illustrates an exploded view of the push-in connector of FIG.26.

FIG. 29 illustrates a perspective view of a cylindrical push-inconnector according to another embodiment of the push-in connector.

FIG. 30 illustrates a perspective view of the opposite end of thepush-in connector of FIG. 29.

FIG. 31 illustrates an exploded view of the push-in connector of FIG.30.

FIG. 32 illustrates a perspective view of a cubic push-in connectoraccording to another embodiment of the push-in connector.

FIG. 33 illustrates an exploded view of the push-in connector of FIG.32.

FIG. 34 illustrates a bottom perspective view of a quadrant-stylepush-in connector according to another embodiment of the push-inconnector.

FIG. 35 illustrates a top perspective view of the push-in connector ofFIG. 34.

FIG. 36 illustrates an exploded view of the push-in connector of FIGS.34 and 35.

FIG. 37 illustrates a perspective view of a four-port push-in connectoraccording to another embodiment of the push-in connector.

FIG. 38 illustrates a top view of the push-in connector of FIG. 37.

FIG. 39 illustrates a top view of the push-in connector of FIG. 37 witha distal end removed for clarity.

FIG. 40 illustrates a sectional view of the push-in connector of FIG. 37showing internal wiring connections.

FIG. 41 illustrates the push-in connector of FIG. 40 with an insertedwiring lead and depressed release button.

FIG. 42 illustrates a perspective view of an eight-port push-inconnector according to another embodiment of the push-in connector.

FIG. 43 illustrates a top view of the push-in connector of FIG. 42.

FIG. 44 illustrates a top view of the push-in connector of FIG. 42 withthe distal end removed for clarity.

FIG. 45 illustrates a sectional view of the internal components of thepush-in connector of FIG. 42.

FIG. 46 illustrates the push-in connector of FIG. 45 with insertedwiring leads and depressed release buttons.

FIG. 47 illustrates a perspective view of a seven-port push-in connectoraccording to another embodiment of the push-in connector.

FIG. 48 illustrates an exploded view of the push-in connector of FIG.47.

FIG. 49 illustrates a perspective view of a release tool for releasinginserted wire leads in any embodiment of the push-in connector.

FIG. 50 illustrates a perspective view of a variation of the releasetool of FIG. 49 having bent releases.

FIG. 51 illustrates a view of a push-in connector disposed within aceiling fan canopy according to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 52 illustrates a schematic view of the push-in connector of FIG. 51electrically coupling a fan to structure wiring.

FIG. 53 illustrates a view of a push-in connector disposed within aceiling fan canopy and another push-in connector disposed within adownrod according to another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 54 illustrates a schematic view of the push-in connectors of FIG.53 electrically coupling a fan to structure wiring.

FIG. 55 illustrates a view of a push-in connector, a receiver, andanother push-in connector disposed within a ceiling fan canopy accordingto another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 56 illustrates a schematic view of the push-in connector of FIG. 55electrically coupling a fan to structure wiring and a receiver.

FIG. 57 illustrates a view of a push-in connector, a receiver, a secondpush-in connector disposed within a ceiling fan canopy, and a thirdpush-in connector disposed within a downrod according to anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 58 illustrates a schematic view of the push-in connector of FIG. 57coupling a ceiling fan to structure wiring and a receiver.

FIG. 59 illustrates an internal view another embodiment of the push-inconnector without the need for a jumper.

FIG. 60 illustrates the push-in connector of FIG. 59 having a smallerbusbar electrically uncoupled from an adjacent larger busbar.

FIG. 61 illustrates an exploded view of a downrod having a recessed andflush mounted cover plate.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring generally to FIGS. 1-20, and more specifically to FIGS. 18-20,a ceiling fan 10 adapted to be coupled to a ceiling or other structure12 having electrical wiring leads 14 a-14 e by way of a push-inconnector 16 is disclosed. The ceiling fan 10 comprises a fan motorassembly 18 with an electric motor (not shown) having electrical fanwiring leads 20 a-20 d, threadable through a downrod 21 or pre-threadedthrough a pre-wired downrod 22, and/or canopy assembly (not shown)adapted to be mounted to the ceiling 12, wherein the electrical fanwiring leads 20 a-20 d are releasably connected to the push-in connector16. Referring generally to FIGS. 1-20, the push-in connector 16separates into a plug portion 24 and socket portion 26 (FIG. 5), eachhaving a proximal end 28 and a distal 30 end, with the proximaldirection defined at the one closer to each other. The plug portion 24and socket portion 26 releasably connect at the proximal ends 28 to forma plug and socket combination (FIG. 5). In one embodiment, the plug 24and socket 26 portions releasably connect by way of a plurality ofelectrical busbar connections 32 (FIG. 4). Each distal end 30 comprisinga plurality of receptacle or ports 40, which are illustrated as eithersingle or dual ports, capable of receiving a plurality of tin dippedelectrical wiring leads, which may be releasably connected to theplurality of ports 40 of the push-in connector 16. The plug 24 andsocket 26 portions separate into two pieces allowing simple wiring andreconnection.

Each plug 24 and socket 26 portion of the push-in connector 16 isseparately connectable to a plurality of wires including the fan, light,neutral and ground wires. The plurality of ports 40 are capable ofreceiving at least one wire. The single ports 40 can receive one wirewhile the dual ports 40 can receive two wires. The use of a single ordual port is typically selected to simplify the wiring for theinstaller. Five ports 40 are disposed on the plug portion 24, comprisinga live black fan port 40 a, a live blue light port 40 b, a white neutralport 40 c, and two green ground ports 40 d (FIGS. 1 and 9). The socketportion 26 is disposed with six ports 40 comprising one live black fanport 40 a, two live blue light ports 40 b, two white neutral ports 40 c,and one green ground port 40 d (FIG. 8). In one example embodiment,ports 40 on both the plug portion 24 and socket portion 26 of theconnector 16 may be color coded to correspond with a particular type ofwire, such as a black for fan, blue for light, white for neutral orgreen for ground wire to ensure the correct wire is received in thecorrect port 40. Ports 40 on both the plug portion 24 and socket portion26 of the connector 16 may also be color coded to ensure proper wireconnections are established.

When the plug 24 and socket 26 portions are connected, the ends ofelectrically connected wires form an electrical connection. Other waysof coding and identifying ports 40 and wires, other than color-coding,may be used as desired by one of skill in the art.

The ports 40 have wire release capability. As best shown in FIG. 4,which is a cross-sectional view of FIG. 8 about the IV-IV cross-section,each port 40 comprises a spring 50 which compresses the wire against thesidewall 52 of the port 40 upon the wire insertion into the port 40. Inone embodiment, a slot or release port 54 is installed beside each port40. The release port 54 allows access to depress the spring 50 locatedin the port 40 thereby releasing the electrical wire from the port 40.Once the spring 50 is depressed, the wire may be pulled out of the port40. A suitable tool may be inserted into the release port 54 to depressthe spring 50.

Referring generally to FIGS. 1-9, the push-in connector 16 comprises ajumper 64 or metal connector used to open or close part of an electricalcircuit. The jumper 64 allows electrical connection between either oneor two live wires. In one example embodiment, the jumper 64 may be aslider switch but any other jumper 64 may be used to open or close partof an electrical circuit as desired by one skill in the art. In FIG. 4,the jumper 64 is located on a sidewall 52 of the socket portion 26 ofthe push-in connector 16 in between the two ports 40 capable ofreceiving the live wires, such as the single black 40 a and blue ports40 b. The jumper 64 allows single or dual wall switch wiring scenario.In one embodiment in which the jumper 64 is a slide switch, a small flathead screwdriver may be used to move the slider switch from single todual wall switch wiring scenario.

The push-in connector 16 allows a plurality of wire connections such asfan, lighting, neutral and ground connections. Such wire connections arecreated by inserting each wire lead 14 a-14 e, 20 a-20 d from theceiling fan and the ceiling into its designated port 40 on the distalends 30 of the push-in connector 16 and then aligning the plug 24 andsocket 26 portions and releasably connecting the plug 24 and socket 26portions (FIGS. 13-17).

For purposes of discussing some of the more relevant wiring scenarios, aschematic version of the push-in connector 16 will be used and isillustrated in FIGS. 10-12. In the schematic representation of thepush-in connector 16, the plug portion 24 (or top portion) of thepush-in connector 16 has a plurality of ports 40 capable of receiving atleast one wiring lead 14 a-14 e from the structure or ceiling 12, witheach wiring lead 14 a-14 e being tin-dipped. However, the type of wirelead, tin-dipped or not, is not germane to the embodiments of theinvention discussed herein, and is not limiting. The plurality of ports40 for the plug portion 24, as illustrated in this embodiment, comprisethe single black port 40 a capable of receiving a first live wire 14 a,(single switch scenario), single blue port 40 b capable of receiving asecond live wire 14 e (dual switch scenario), single white port 40 ccapable of receiving a neutral wire 14 c, and dual green ports 40 dcapable of receiving ground wires 14 d including the ground wires fromthe electrical box (not shown) and hanger bracket 60 (see FIG. 18-20) ofthe structure 12 to which the ceiling fan 10 is to be mounted. Thehanger bracket 60 may be any structure mount designed to mechanicallycouple the ceiling fan 10 to a structure, building, or ceiling thereof.The socket portion 26 (or bottom portion) of the push-in connector 16comprises a plurality of ports 40 capable of receiving at least one fanwiring lead 20 a-20 d from the ceiling fan motor assembly 18. In oneembodiment, the plurality of ports 40 comprise the single black port 40a capable of receiving a fan wire 20 a, dual blue 40 b port capable ofreceiving a light wire 20 b or up-light wire, dual white ports 40 ccapable of receiving a neutral wire 20 c for wiring the fan and aneutral wire 20 c for wiling a receiver 72 (FIG. 17), and green port 40d capable of receiving ground wires 20 d including the ground wires fromthe ceiling fan motor assembly 18 or downrod 21.

Looking now at some of the different wire connections or wiringscenarios, and with reference to FIGS. 15-16, in the context of apre-wired downrod 22, one such wire connection is created by (A)inserting each wire lead 20 a-20 c from the ceiling fan motor assembly18 into its designated port 40 on the distal end 30 of a socket portion26 of a first push-in connector 16 a, (B) inserting a downrod wiringlead 70 a-70 c exposed from the bottom end of a pre-wired downrod 22into its designated port 40 of the distal end 30 of a plug 24 portion ofthe first push-in connector 16 a, wherein the pre-wired downrod 22 iscoupled to a socket portion 26 of a second push-in connector 16 b havingdownrod wiring leads 70 a-70 d pre-wired to the distal end 30 of thesocket portion 26 of the second push-in connector 16 b, and (C)inserting each wire lead, electrical wiring leads 14 a, 14 c-14 d inFIG. 15 and electrical wiring leads 14 a, 14 c-14 e in FIG. 16, from theceiling 12 into its designated port 40 on the distal end 30 of a plugportion 24 of the second push-in connector 16 b.

Referring to FIG. 13, the push-in connector 16 may be used to connect aceiling fan motor assembly 18 to a structure 12 having electrical wiringleads 14 a, 14 c-14 d or house wires. FIG. 13 depicts the electricalwire connections made by the push-in connector 16 in a single switchwiring scenario (jumper 64 slider switch is in single switch set upposition). The plurality of ports 40 on the distal end 30 of the plugportion 24 of the push-in connector 16 are configured to receive theelectrical wire leads 14 a, 14 c-14 d of the structure 12 or ceiling,including the main live wire 14 a (or black wire) which is pushed intothe black port 40 a, neutral wire 14 c (or white wire) which is pushedinto the white port 40 c, and two ground wires 14 d (or green wires)from the structure 12 and hanger bracket 60 which are pushed into thegreen ports 40 d. The plurality of ports 40 on the distal end 30 of thesocket portion 26 of the push-in connector 16 are configured to receivethe fan wiring leads 20 a-20 d of the ceiling fan motor assembly 18including the fan wire 20 a (or black wire) which is pushed into theblack port 40 a, light wire 20 b (blue wire) which is pushed into theblue port 40 b, the neutral wire 20 c (or white wire) which is pushedinto the white port 40 c, and ground wires 20 d (or green wire) from thefan motor assembly 18 or downrod 21 which is pushed into the green port40 d. The plug portion 24 of the push-in connector 16 is releasablyconnected to the socket portion 26 of the push-in connector 16 aligningthe wire leads of the plug portion 24 to the corresponding wire leads ofthe socket portion 26 to allow a plurality of wire connections such asfan, lighting, neutral and ground connections. Such wire connections arecreated by inserting each wire lead 14 a, 14 c-14 d, 20 a-20 d from theceiling fan motor assembly 18 and the ceiling 12 into its designatedport 40 on the distal ends 30 of the push-in connector 16 and thenaligning the plug 24 and socket 26 portions and releasably connectingthe plug 24 and socket 26 portions.

Referring now to FIG. 14, the push-in connector 16 may he used toconnect a ceiling fan motor assembly 18 to the structure 12 havingelectrical wiring leads 14 a, 14 c-14 e or house wires. FIG. 14 depictsthe electrical wire connections made by the push-in connector 16 in adual switch wiring scenario (jumper 64 slider switch is in dual switchset up position). The plurality of ports 40 on the distal end 30 of theplug portion 24 of the push-in connector 16 are configured to receivethe electrical wire leads 14 a, 14 c-14 e of the structure 12 orceiling, including the main live wire 14 a (or black wire) which ispushed into the black port 40 a, second live wire 14 e (or red wire)which is pushed into the blue port 40 b, neutral wire 14 c (or whitewire) which is pushed into the white port 40 c, and two ground wires 14d (or green wires) from the house or structure 12 and hanger bracket 60which are pushed into the green ports 40 d. The plurality of ports 40 onthe distal end 30 of the socket portion 26 of the push-in connector 16are configured to receive the fan wiring leads 20 a-20 d of the ceilingfan motor assembly 18, including the fan wire 20 a black wire) which ispushed into the black port 40 a, light wire 20 b (or blue wire) which ispushed into the blue port 40 b, neutral wire 20 c (or white wire) whichis pushed into the white port 40 c, and ground wire 20 d (or green wire)from the fan motor assembly 18 or downrod 21 which is pushed into thegreen port 40 d. The plug portion 24 of the push-in connector 16 isreleasably connected to the socket portion 26 of the push-in connector16 thereby aligning the wire leads of the plug portion 24 to thecorresponding wire leads of the socket portion 26 to allow a pluralityof wire connections such as fan, lighting, neutral and groundconnections. Such wire connections are created by inserting each wirelead 14 a, 14 c-14 e, 20 a-20 d from the ceiling fan motor assembly 18and the ceiling 12 into its designated port 40 on the distal ends 30 ofthe push-in connector 16 and then aligning the plug 24 and socket 26portions and releasably connecting the plug 24 and socket 26 portions.

In FIGS. 15 and 16, in another embodiment, the ceiling fan motorassembly 18 adapted to be coupled to the structure 12 having electricalwiring leads 14 a, 14 c-14 e by way of push-in connector 16 a, 16 b. Theceiling fan motor assembly 18 comprises an electric motor (not shown)having electrical fan wiring leads 20 a-20 d threadable through anextended pre-wired downrod 22 and/or canopy assembly (not shown) adaptedto be mounted to a ceiling or structure 12, wherein the electrical fanwiring leads 20 a-20 c are releasably connected to a push-in connector16 a, 16 b. The ceiling fan motor assembly 18 may further comprise anelongated downrod as disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/186,680, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety,and in which electrical downrod wiring leads 70 a-70 d may be placed inthe downrod at the manufacturer and may extend the length of the downrodto form the pre-wired downrod 22. The pre-wired downrod 22 comprises atop end 66 which is adapted to be coupled to a canopy assembly (notshown) and a bottom end 68 which may be coupled to the electric motorwithin the motor assembly 18. The motor has fan wiring leads 20 a-20 d.The electrical downrod wiring leads 70 a-70 d are coupled to a secondpush-in connector 16 b mounted at the top end 66 of the pre-wireddownrod 22, and the bottom end 68 of the pre-wired downrod 22 exposestin-dipped electrical downrod wiring leads 70 a-70 c releasablyconnectable to a plug portion 24 of a first push-in connector 16 a. Inone embodiment, the pre-wired downrod 22 may be about four feet inlength but the downrod, pre-wired or not, may be shorter or longer inlength as desired by one of skill in the art. The pre-wired downrod 22can include a flush mounted covering, which is sealed by a gasket andsecured by either spring force or a small screw, as is depicted in thedownrod of the '680 application.

FIG. 15 depicts the single switch wiring scenario with the pre-wireddownrod 22. Push-in connectors 16 a, 16 b may be used to connect theceiling fan motor assembly 18 to the structure 12 having electricalwiring leads 14 a, 14 c-14 e or house wires in conjunction with thepre-wired downrod 22. FIG. 15 depicts the electrical wire connectionsmade by the push-in connectors 16 a, 16 b in single wall switch wiringscenario (jumper 64 slider switch is in single switch set up position).The plurality of ports 40 on the distal end 30 of the socket portion 26of the first push-in connector 16 a are configured to receive the fanwiring leads 20 a-20 c of the ceiling fan motor assembly 18, includingthe fan wire 20 a (or black wire) which is pushed into the black port 40a, light wire 20 b (blue wire) which is pushed into the blue port 40 b,and neutral wire 20 c (or white wire) which is pushed into the whiteport 40 c. The plug portion 24 of the first push-in connector 16 a isreleasably connected to the socket portion 26 of the first push-inconnector 16 a. The plurality of ports 40 on the distal end 30 of theplug portion 24 of the first push-in connector 16 a are configured toreceive the tin dipped downrod wiring leads 70 a-70 c exposed at thebottom end of the pre-wired downrod 22, including a main live fan wire70 a (or black wire) which is pushed into the black port 40 a, lightwire 70 b (or blue wire) which is pushed into the blue port 40 b, andneutral wire 70 c (or white wire) which is pushed into the white port 40c. The plug portion 24 of the first push-in connector 16 a is releasablyconnected to the socket portion 26 of the first push-in connector 16 a,thereby aligning the downrod wiring leads 70 a-70 c of the plug portion24 to the corresponding fan wiring leads 20 a-20 c of the socket portion26 of the first push-in connector 16 a to allow a plurality of wireconnections such as fan, lighting, neutral and ground connections. Suchwire connections are created by inserting each fan wiring lead 20 a-20 cfrom the ceiling fan motor assembly 18 and each downrod wiring lead 70a-70 c from the bottom end 68 of the pre-wired downrod 22 into itsdesignated port 40 on the distal ends 30 of the first push-in connector16 a and then aligning the plug 24 and socket portions of the firstpush-in connector 16 a and releasably connecting the plug 24 and socket26 portions.

Still, referring to FIG. 15, to establish the wire connections for thesingle switch wiring scenario of the ceiling fan motor assembly 18 tothe structure 12 having electrical wiring leads 14 a, 14 c-14 d inconjunction with a pre-wired downrod 22, a second push-in connector 16 bmay be used. The second push-in connector 16 b is coupled to the top end66 of the pre-wired downrod 22. The plurality of ports 40 on the distalend 30 of the socket portion 26 of the second push-in connector 16 b arepre-wired with the downrod wiring leads 70 a-70 d of the pre-wireddownrod 22 including the fan wire 70 a (or black wire) which is pushedinto the black port 40 a, light wire 70 b (blue wire) which is pushedinto the blue port 40 b, neutral wire 70 c (or white wire) which ispushed into the white port 40 c, and ground wire 70 d (or green wire)which is pushed into the green port 40 d. The plug portion 24 of thesecond push-in connector 16 b is releasably connected to the socketportion 26 of second push-in connector 16 b. The plurality of ports 40on the distal end 30 of the plug portion 24 of the second push-inconnector 16 b are configured to receive the electrical wire leads 14comprising electrical wiring leads 14 a, 14 c-14 d of the ceiling 12 orhouse wires including the main live wire 14 a (or black wire) which ispushed into the black port 40 a, neutral wire 14 c (or white wire) whichis pushed into the white port 40 b, and ground wires 14 d (or greenwires form the house or structure 12 and hanger bracket 60) which arepushed into the green ports 40 d. The plug portion 24 of the secondpush-in connector 16 b is releasably connected to the socket portion 26of the second push-in connector 16 b, thereby aligning the electricalwiring leads 14 a, 14 c-14 d of the plug portion 24 to the correspondingdownrod wiring leads 70 a-70 d of the socket portion 26 to allow aplurality of wire connections such as fan, lighting, neutral and groundconnections. Such wire connections are created by inserting eachelectrical wiring lead 14 a-14 e from the ceiling or structure 12 intoits designated port 40 on the distal ends 30 of the plug portion 24 ofthe second push-in connector 16 b, and then aligning the plug 24 andsocket 26 portions of the second push-in connector 16 b and releasablyconnecting the plug 24 and socket 26 portions of the second push-inconnector 10 b.

Referring now to FIG. 16, in one embodiment, the double switch wiringscenario with a pre-wired downrod 22 with push-in connectors 16 a and 16b may be used to connect the ceiling fan motor assembly 18 to thestructure 12 or ceiling having electrical wiring leads 14 a, 14 c-14 eor house wires. FIG. 16 depicts the electrical wire connections made bythe push-in connectors 16 a and 16 b in the double switch wiringscenario (jumper 64 slider switch is in double switch set up position).The plurality of ports 40 on the distal end 30 of the socket portion 26of the first push-in connector 16 a are configured to receive the fanwiring leads 20 a-20 c of the ceiling fan motor assembly 18, includingthe fan wire 20 a (or black wire) which is pushed into the black port 40a, light wire 20 b (or blue wire) which is pushed into the blue port 40b, and neutral wire 20 c (or white wire) which is pushed into the whiteport 40 c. The plug portion 24 of the first push-in connector 16 a isreleasably connected to the socket portion 26 of the first push-inconnector 16 a in order to establish wire connections. The plurality ofports 40 on the distal end 30 of the plug portion 24 of the firstpush-in connector 16 a are configured to receive the tin dipped downrodwiring leads 70 a-70 c exposed at the bottom end 68 of the pre-wireddownrod 22, including the main live fan wire 70 a (or black wire) whichis pushed into the black port 40 a, light wire 70 b (or blue wire) whichis pushed into the blue port 40 b, and neutral wire 70 c white wire)which is pushed into the white port 40 c. The plug portion 24 of thefirst push-in connector 16 a is releasably connected to the socketportion 26 of the first push-in connector 16 a thereby aligning thedownrod wiring leads 70 a-70 c of the plug portion 24 to thecorresponding fan wiring leads 20 a-20 c of the socket portion 26 toallow a plurality of wire connections such as fan, lighting, neutral andground connections. Such wire connections are created by inserting eachfan wiring lead 20 a-20 c from the ceiling fan motor assembly 18 andeach downrod wiring lead 70 a-70 c from the bottom end 68 of thepre-wired downrod 22 into its designated port 40 on the distal ends 30of the first push-in connector 16 a, and then aligning the plug 24 andsocket 26 portions of the first push-in connector 16 a and releasablyconnecting the plug 24 and socket 26 portions.

Still, referring to FIG. 16, to establish the wire connections for thedouble switch wiring scenario of the ceiling fan 10 to the structure 12having electrical wiring leads 14 a, 14 c-14 e in conjunction with thepre-wired downrod 22, the second push-in connector 16 b may be used. Thesecond push-in connector 16 b couples to the top end 66 of the pre-wireddownrod 22. The plurality of ports 40 on the distal end 30 of the socketportion 26 of the second push-in connector 16 b are pre-wired with thedownrod wiring leads 70 a-70 d of the pre-wired downrod 22, includingthe live fan wire 70 a (or black wire) which is pushed into the blackport 40 a, light wire 70 b (blue wire) which is pushed into the blueport 40 b, neutral wire 70 c (or white wire) which is pushed into thewhite port 40 c, and ground wire 70 d (or green wire) which is pushedinto the green port 40 d. The plug portion 24 of the second push-inconnector 16 b is releasably connected to the socket portion 26 of thesecond push-in connector 16 b. The plurality of ports 40 on the distalend 30 of the plug portion 24 of the second push-in connector 16 b areconfigured to receive the electrical wiring leads 14 a, 14 c-14 e of theceiling 12 or house wires, including the main live wire 14 a (or blackwire) which is pushed into the black port 40 a, second live wire 14 e(or red wire) which is pushed into the blue port 40 b, neutral wire 14 c(or white wire) which is pushed into the white port 40 c, and groundwires 14 d (or green wires from the house or structure 12 and hangerbracket 60) which are pushed into the green ports 40 d, The plug portion24 of the second push-in connector 16 b is releasably connected to thesocket portion 26 of the second push-in connector 16 b thereby aligningthe wire leads of the plug portion 24 to the corresponding wire leads ofthe socket portion 26 to allow a plurality of wire connections such asfan, lighting, neutral and ground connections, Such wire connections arecreated by inserting each electrical wiring lead 14 a, 14 c-14 e fromthe ceiling or structure 12 into its designated port 40 on the distalend 30 of the plug portion 24 of the second push-in connector 16 b, andthen aligning the plug 24 and socket 26 portions of the second push-inconnector 16 b and releasably connecting the plug 24 and socket portions26 of the second push-in connector 16 b.

Referring now to FIG. 17, a method to connect the accessory receiver 72to ceiling fan motor assembly 18 via a single wall switch is disclosed.One example of an accessory receiver is a wireless device for receivinga wireless signal used to remotely control and operate the ceiling fanassembly 18. The second push-in connector 16 b is coupled to thereceiver 72. The plurality of ports 40 on the distal end 30 of thesocket portion 26 of the second push-in connector 16 b are pre-wiredwith the tin-dipped electrical receiver wiring leads 74 a, 74 c of thereceiver 72, including a live receiver wire 74 a (or black wire) whichis pushed in the black port 40 a, and a neutral receiver wire 74 c whichis pushed into one of the white ports 40 c. The socket portion 26 isalso pre-wired with a neutral wire 20 c from the fan motor assembly 18(or white wire) which is pushed in the other white port 40 c, and aground wire 20 d from the ceiling fan motor assembly 18 (or green wire)which is pushed in the green port 40 d. The plurality of ports 40 on thedistal end 30 of the plug portion 24 of the second push-in connector 16b are configured to receive the electrical wire leads 14 a, 14 c-14 d ofthe ceiling 12 or house wires, including the main live wire lead 14 a(or black wire) which is pushed in the black port 40 a, neutral wire 14c (or white wire) which is pushed in the white port 40 c, and groundwires 14 d (or green wires) which are pushed in the green ports 40 d.

The plurality of ports 40 on the distal end 30 of the plug portion 24 ofthe first push-in connector 16 a receive tin-dipped receiver wiringleads 74 b, 74 d of the receiver 72, including a fan load wire 74 d (orblue wire) which is pushed the black port 40 a and a light receiver wirelead 74 b (or yellow wire) which is pushed in the blue port 40 b. Theplurality of ports 40 on the distal end 30 of the socket portion 26 ofthe first push-in connector 16 a receive tin dipped electrical wireleads from the ceiling fan assembly 18, including the fan wire lead 20 a(or black wire) which is pushed into the black port 40 a and the lightwire lead 20 b (or blue wire) which is pushed into the blue port 40 b.

While FIGS. 13-17 schematically illustrate different wiring scenariosusing the push-in connector 16, FIGS. 18-20 illustrate the use of thepush-in connector 16 for exemplary installations where the ceiling fanmotor assembly 18 is mounted and wired in a typical ceiling mount, withFIG. 18 illustrating a low profile mounting using a downrod 21 and asingle push-in connector 16, FIG. 19 illustrating a standard mountingusing a pre-wired downrod 22 and two push-in connectors 16 a, 16 b, andFIG. 20 illustrating a standard mounting using a pre-wired downrod 22and a single push-in connector 16.

Referring now to FIG. 18, in another example embodiment, a method ofinstalling a ceiling fan 10 is disclosed using the push-in connector 16in the context of a traditional, non-pre-wired, downrod 21. The methodincludes the steps of: (A) providing the ceiling fan 10 having the fanmotor assembly 18 with an electric motor (not shown) having electricalfan wiring leads 20 comprising wiring leads 20, downrod 21, and/orcanopy assembly (not shown) adapted to be mounted to the ceiling 12 of astructure and the push-in connector 16 which comprises the plug 24 andsocket portions 26, each having proximal 28 and distal 30 ends, whereinthe plug portion 24 and socket portion 26 releasably connect at theproximal ends 28 to form a plug and socket combination, wherein eachdistal end 30 comprises single or dual ports 40 or receptacles capableof connecting to tin dipped electrical wire leads releasably connectedto the push-in connector 16; (B) threading the electrical fan wiringleads 20 through the downrod 21 and attaching the downrod 21 to the fanmotor assembly 18; (C) connecting the fan wiring leads 20 to theplurality of ports on the distal end 30 of the socket portion 26 of thepush-in connector 16 by pushing in the colored wires to thecorresponding colored ports; (D) connecting electrical wire leads 14 tothe plurality of ports on the distal end 30 of the plug portion 24 ofthe push-in connector 16 by pushing in the colored wires to thecorresponding colored ports; (E) hanging the downrod 21 in the hangerbracket 60; and (F) connecting the plug 24 and socket portions 26 of thepush-in connector 16.

Referring now to FIG. 19, in a further embodiment, a method ofinstalling a ceiling fan 10 is disclosed. The method includes the stepsof: (A) providing the ceiling fan motor assembly 18 having an electricmotor (not shown) having fan wiring leads 20, canopy assembly (notshown) adapted to be mounted to the ceiling 12 of the structure, andfirst and second push-in connectors 16 a, 16 b, each comprising plug 24and socket 26 portions, each having proximal 28 and distal 30 ends,wherein the plug portion 24 and socket portion 26 releasably connect atthe proximal end 28 to form a plug and socket combination, wherein thedistal ends 30 comprise a plurality of single or dual ports orreceptacles capable of connecting to a plurality of tin dippedelectrical wire leads releasably connected to the push-in connectors 16a, 16 b, and an elongated, downrod comprising downrod wiring leads 70extending the length of the downrod forming a pre-wired downrod 22,wherein the pre-wired downrod 22 comprises a top end 66 which is adaptedto be coupled to the canopy assembly (not shown) and a bottom end 68which may be coupled to the fan motor assembly 18, wherein the top end66 of the pre-wired downrod 22 couples to a second push-in connector 16b, and wherein the bottom end 68 exposes tin-dipped downrod wiring leads70 releasably connectable to a first push-in connector 16 a; (B)connecting electrical wire leads 14 to the plurality of ports on thedistal end 30 of the plug portion 24 of the second push-in connector 16b by pushing in the electrical wire leads 14 to the designated ports;(C) connecting the ground wires to the designated port on the distal end30 of the socket portion 26 of the second push-in connector 16 b; (D)connecting the downrod wiring leads 70 exposed at the bottom end 68 ofthe pre-wired downrod 22 to the designated ports on the distal end 30 ofthe plug portion 24 of the first push-in connector 16 a; (E) connectingthe fan wiring leads 20 to the designated ports on the distal end 30 ofthe socket portion 26 of the first push-in connector 16 a; (F)connecting the plug 24 and socket 26 portions of the first push-inconnector 16 a and threading the pre-wired downrod 22 onto the ceilingfan motor assembly 18; and (G) hanging the pre-wired downrod 22 inhanger bracket 60 and connecting the plug 24 and socket 26 portions ofthe second push-in connector 16 b.

Referring now to FIG. 20, in a further embodiment, a method ofinstalling a ceiling fan 10 with the pre-wired downrod 22 having onepush-in connector 16 is disclosed. The method includes the steps of: (A)providing the fan motor assembly 18 having an electric motor (not shown)having fan wiring leads 20, canopy assembly (not shown) adapted to bemounted to the ceiling 12 of the structure, and elongated, pre-wireddownrod 22 comprising downrod wiring leads 70 extending the length ofthe pre-wired downrod 22, wherein the pre-wired downrod 22 comprises atop end 66 which is adapted to be coupled to the canopy assembly and abottom end 68 which may be coupled to the fan motor assembly 18, whereinthe top end 66 of the pre-wired downrod 22 is coupled to a push-inconnector 16, and wherein the bottom end 68 exposes downrod wiring leads70 connectable to fan wiring leads 20; (B) connecting electrical wireleads 14 to the plurality of ports on the distal end 30 of the plugportion 24 of the push-in connector 16 by pushing in the electrical wireleads 14 to the designated ports; (C) connecting the ground wires 70 tothe designated port on the distal end 30 of the socket portion 26 of thepush-in connector 16, (D) connecting the downrod wiring leads 70 exposedat the bottom end 68 of the pre-wired downrod 22 to the fan wiring leads20 via wire connectors 34; and (E) hanging the pre-wired downrod 22 inhanger bracket 60 and connecting the plug 24 and socket 26 portions ofthe push-in connector 16.

Regarding the methods of FIGS. 19-20, in one variation, a furtheroptional step may include mechanically coupling the selected pre-wireddownrod 22 to the ceiling fan assembly 18.

All the embodiments in FIGS. 18-20, show a ceiling fan 10 that mounts toa ceiling 12 or structure. The ceiling 12 may have an electrical box(not shown) to which the hanger bracket 60 mounts. Electrical wire leads14 may electrically couple to the electrical box or the structure powersupply to the ceiling fan 10. A ball 78, such as a tri-lobular ball, canbe provided at the top end 66 of the downrod 21 or pre-wired downrod 22and is received in a cradle of the hanger bracket 60 to couple eitherdownrod 21, 22 to the hanger bracket 60. Opposite of the ball 78, thedownrod 21 or pre-wired downrod 22 may couple to a downrod coupler 76,mounting the fan motor assembly 18 to either downrod 21, 22.

Additional variations of the ceiling fan 10 with a pre-wired downrod 22are contemplated in any combination of downrod wiring leads 70 with oneor more push-in connectors 16 disposed on either end of the downrodwiring leads 70. The pre-wired downrod 22 may or may not be pre-mountedto the ball 78 and fan motor assembly 18, or where wire connectors 34 oradditional sets of push-in connectors 16, downrod wiring leads 70, orlengths of wire are implemented as needed to electrically couple the fanmotor assembly 18 to the electrical wire leads 14.

While some of the different wiring scenarios of FIGS. 13-17 and thedifferent installations of FIGS. 18-20 are shown in the context of anon-pre-wired downrod 21, the pre-wired downrod 22 can be used in any ofthe wiring scenarios and/or installations. In any use of the pre-wireddownrod 22, the downrod in the '680 application, with the access openingand cover can be pre-wired to form a pre-wired downrod 22. It should benoted that any suitable downrod and access opening configuration may beused in forming a pre-wired downrod 22.

FIGS. 21-23 show one such variation to a pre-wired downrod 122 that maybe used for any of the described downrods, especially the describeddownrods of FIGS. 15-16 and 19-20. Beginning with FIG. 21, the pre-wireddownrod 122 has a body 150 defining a hollow interior 151 and may be ofmultiple lengths, widths, or cross sections suitable for use with aceiling fan assembly. The pre-wired downrod 122 further comprises a topend 172 and a bottom end 174. The bottom end 174 terminates in afan-coupling collar 160, which may mount the bottom end 174 of thepre-wired downrod 122, for example, to a downrod coupler or directly toa fan motor assembly. Downrod wiring leads 70 a-70 d, comprising, in oneexample, the black fan wire 70 a, blue light wire 70 b, white neutralwire 70 c, and green ground wire 70 d, are disposed within the hollowinterior 151. The downrod wiring leads 70 a-70 d terminate in thepush-in connector 16 toward the top end 172 of the pre-wired downrod122. In further embodiments, additional or fewer downrod wiring leads 70a-70 d may be included, and particular types of downrod wiring leads 70a-d may be optional; for example, in ceiling fans not including a lightfixture, the light wire is not required.

A slide cover 152 is slidably received over the body 150, whereby theslide cover 152 and body 150 may slide relative to each other. The slidecover 152 terminates in a collar 158. The slide cover 152 has a crosssection sized to define an interior in which the body 150 may beslidably received, enabling the slide cover 152 to slide along the body150. One or more of the ends 172, 174 of the body 150 can optionallyinclude a set of mounting recesses 154 for mounting the pre-wireddownrod 122 to the ceiling fan 10, fan motor assembly 18, hanger bracket60, or otherwise. The ends 172, 174 may further include a set ofmounting holes 156 for use in mounting the push-in connector 16 to thepre-wired downrod 122.

FIG. 22 is an exploded view of the pre-wired downrod 122 to betterillustrate the different elements forming the pre-wired downrod 122. Asis seen in FIG. 22, a groove 162 is disposed around the exterior of thebody 150. A stop, such as a stopper ring 164, is received within thegroove 162. The stopper ring 164 has an inner diameter sized to securelyrest within the groove 162, and has an outer diameter greater than theinner diameter of the collar 158 such that the slide cover 152 may slidedown the body 150 from the top end 172 of the body 150 without fallingdownwardly off the body 150. An access opening 166 is disposed within aside of the body 150 between the groove 162 and the bottom end 174,granting access to the hollow interior 151 within the body 150 as theslide cover 152 slides along the length of the body 150. In variationson the illustrated embodiment, the access opening 166 may be locatedanywhere along the side of the body 150 between the top end 172 and thebottom end 174 of the pre-wired downrod 122.

The push-in connector 16 may be sized such that it can be receivedwithin the hollow interior 151 of the body 150. Set screws 168, only oneof which is shown in FIG. 22, may thread through the holes 156 and intothe push-in connector 16 to, thus securing it to the body 150.Alternatively, the push-in connector 16 can be unmounted. If unmounted,the push-in connector 16 may be free to move within the hollow interior151 or may remain external of the hollow interior 151, which may befreely moved when connecting the push-in connector the electrical wiringleads 14. While the push-in connector 16 is shown on the top end 172 ofthe pre-wired downrod 122, it may alternatively be on the bottom end 174of the pre-wired downrod 122, or somewhere between the top and bottomends 172, 174.

The downrod wiring leads 70 a-70 d, having a set of wire tips 170disposed on both ends of the downrod wiring leads 70 a-70 d, arepreinstalled within the pre-wired downrod 122 The downrod wiring leads70 a-70 d may comprise any number of wires having electricallyconductive wire tips 170, wherein the wire tips 170 may be tin dipped orcomprise an electrically conductive material such as copper, innon-limiting examples.

The wire tips 170 on either end of the downrod wiring leads 70 a-70 dmay be coupled to the push-in connector 16 as previously described. Inthe context of the pre-wired downrod 122, it is contemplated that thewire tips 170 will be coupled to the appropriate ports 40 of the push-inconnector 16 by the manufacturer depending on the anticipated wiringscenario, i.e. single or dual switch scenario. Alternatively, only thedownrod wiring leads 70 a-70 d may be installed by the manufacturer toform the pre-wired downrod 122, with the connectors being provided forwiring by the installer.

In the configuration illustrated in FIG. 22, one set of wire tips 170may be received in the push-in connector 16, while the other set of wiretips 170 may be accessible through the access opening 166. Such apre-wired downrod 122 makes it easier for the installer to use thedownrod 122 in a wiring scenario and installation similar to that ofFIG. 20, where the electrical wiring leads 14 are pushed into thepush-in connector 16 and the fan wiring leads 20 are manually connectedto the other set of wire tips 170 with traditional wire connectors 34such as wire nuts. The access opening 166 provides a window throughwhich the wire tips 170 and the fan wiring leads 20 of FIG. 20 may beaccessed during manual wiring or after, when the wire connectors 34 arehidden within the pre-wired downrod 122.

Turning to FIG. 23, another embodiment of the pre-wired downrod 222 isshown with a first push-in connector 16 a and a second push-in connector16 b. The second push-in connector 16 b may affix to the bottom end 174of the pre-wired downrod 222 by threading screw 168 through the hole 156at the bottom end 174 or may float freely below the bottom end 174 ofthe pre-wired downrod 222. The downrod wiring leads 70 a-70 d ending inwire tips 170 opposite of the first push-in connector 16 a may bepre-inserted into the second push-in connector 16 b by a manufacturer.In the context of the pre-wired downrod 222, it is contemplated that thewire tips 170 will be coupled to the appropriate ports 40 of the secondpush-in connector 16 b, as well as the first push-in connector 16 a, bythe manufacturer. The pre-wired downrod 222 of FIG. 23 is well suitedfor use in the installation of FIG. 19 using the wiring scenarios ofeither of FIGS. 15-16 and 19. An installer may easily electricallycouple fan wiring leads 20 to downrod wiring leads 70 a-70 d by pushingthe fan wiring leads 20 into the second push-in connector 16 b. Uponpushing fan wiring leads 20 into the second push-in connector 16 b andpushing electrical wiring leads 14 into the first push-in connector 16a, the fan motor assembly 18 receives electrical power from thestructure.

There are many variations for mounting the ceiling fans 10 of FIGS.18-20 utilizing a pre-wired downrod comprising one or more of thepre-wired downrods 22, 122. 222. The downrods 22, 122, 222 may beincorporated into a set of pre-wired downrods and may comprise differentlengths. The number and location of push-in connectors 16, along withthe number and length of downrods, can be varied to cover a variety ofinstallation and wiring scenarios for ceiling fans. Because there are avariety of installation and wiring scenarios, the set of pre-wireddownrods can be provided, such as at a point of sale, to let aninstaller match the downrod or downrods to their particular installationand wiring needs. The set of pre-wired downrods may be provided in a kitwith the fan as part of the original purchase or may be for sale in anala carte fashion.

One illustrative scenario is providing both a short downrod, likedownrod 21 in FIG. 18, but pre-wired, suitable for a low profilemounting, and a standard length downrod, like the pre-wired downrod 22in FIGS. 19 and 20, suitable for a standard mounting. This would providethe installer with the option of a low profile or standard profilemounting. Additionally or alternatively, a longer downrod may beprovided for high ceiling installations. A set of pre-wired downrodswith multiple varying lengths could be provided, such as at a point ofsale, to let the installer select the downrod having the desired length.

For any of the downrods, the number of push-in connectors 16 can varyfrom none, to a push-in connector 16 for one set of wire tips 170, to apush-in connector 16 for each set of wire tips 170. The plug 24 andsocket 26 portions of the push-in connectors 16 may be pre-coupled ormay be separated when the installer receives the downrod. Some or all ofthe plug 24 and socket 26 portions can be connected to the correspondingfan wiring leads 20 from the fan motor, downrod wiring leads 70, orelectrical wiring leads 14. In one scenario where a push-in connector 16is used on each set of the wire tips 170, given that the electricalwiring leads 14 are not likely to be sold with the ceiling fan, one ofthe push-in connectors 16 can be pre-coupled or have mated plug 24 andsocket 26 portions, with one of the plug 24 and socket 26 portionsconnected to the wire tips 170 from the downrod wiring leads 70 a-70 d,and the other push-in connector 16 can be separated or have unmated plug24 and socket 26 portions, with one of the disconnected plug 24 andsocket 26 receiving the fan wiring leads 20 and the other of thedisconnected plug 24 and socket 26 connected to the wire tips 170 fromthe downrod wiring leads 70 a-70 d. Of course, both push-in connectors16 can be pre-coupled.

It is contemplated that a set of pre-wired downrods of varying lengthcould be provided for one, some, or all of the differentwiring/installation scenarios of FIGS. 13-20. It is further contemplatedthat different combinations for different wiring/installation scenarioscan be assembled in a kit for ease of installation. FIGS. 24-25illustrate two exemplary kits. Regarding FIG. 24, a ceiling fan kit 300comprises a fan motor assembly 310, pre-wired downrod set 320, mountingassembly 330, and canopy set 340. The pre-wired downrod set 320 maycomprise at least one push-in connector 16, a short pre-wired downrod322 a and a long pre-wired downrod 322 b. Each pre-wired downrod 322 ispreinstalled with a set of downrod wiring leads 70 and may comprise anyof the pre-wired downrods 22, 122, 222 of FIGS. 21-23. While a set oftwo pre-wired downrods 322 are shown, the pre-wired downrod set 320 maycontain any number of pre-wired downrods 322 having varying lengths,sizes, or shapes. Either pre-wired downrod 322 a, 322 b may be used forinstallation, and for convenience the following description willgenerally refer to downrod 322, with the understanding the descriptionapplies to either downrod 322 a, 322 b is included.

The mounting assembly 330 comprises the hanger bracket 60 and the ball78. The hanger bracket 60 mounts to the ceiling or structure and theball 78 couples the pre-wired downrod 322 to the hanger bracket 60. Theball 78 can provide for pivoting movement of the pre-wired downrod 322relative to the hanger bracket 60 and can have a tri-lobe configurationto improve the seating and pivoting movement relative to the hangerbracket 60.

The canopy set 340 comprises a non-adjustable length canopy 342, bestsuited for a traditional-profile mounting. The non-adjustable lengthcanopy 342 may further comprise the non-adjustable length canopy asdisclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/702,201 filed on May 1,2015, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. WhileFIG. 24 shows a single, non-adjustable length canopy 342, any number ofcanopies having differing shapes, sizes, or functionalities may beincluded in the canopy set 340.

The fan motor assembly 310, which may comprise the ceiling fan motorassembly 18 of FIGS. 13-20, may alternatively comprise a motor 350,including motor wires 352 which may comprise the fan wiring leads 20 ofFIGS. 13-20, rotatably driving a rotor 354, which mounts a plurality offan blades 356. Upper motor housing 358 and lower motor housing 360enclose the motor 350 while leaving an annular opening through which thefan blades 356 extend. A motor coupler 366, which may comprise thedownrod coupler 76 of FIGS. 18-20, mounts to an upper end of the motor350, while a motor coupler brace 362 and a light globe or unit 364 mountto the lower end of the motor 350.

FIG. 25 shows a variation of FIG. 24 where a ceiling fan kit 400comprises a canopy set 440 including both a non-adjustable length canopy442 and an adjustable length canopy 444. While FIG. 25 shows both thenon-adjustable length canopy 442 and the adjustable length canopy 444,any number of canopies having differing shapes, sizes, orfunctionalities may be included in the canopy set 440. Thenon-adjustable length canopy 342 is best suited for traditional-profilemounting, and the adjustable length canopy 444, best suited forlow-profile mounting. The canopy set 440 gives the installer an optionto mount the ceiling fan to the ceiling in alternative mounting profileswhere an installer may normally be limited to one mounting profile orrequired to purchase additional parts to accommodate a particularceiling or installation.

Turning now to FIGS. 26-48, multiple versions or embodiments for push-inconnectors are shown, which may be used for any of the push-inconnectors described herein. In cases where more than one push-inconnector is used in a particular installation, it is not necessary thatthe same version be used. The different versions can be mixed in aparticular installation.

FIGS. 26-28 show another embodiment of the push-in connector, which is avariation on the push-in connector of FIGS. 1-9. In FIG. 26, a push-inconnector 450 comprises a plug portion 452 and a socket portion 454,each portion having a proximal end 456 and a distal end 458. The distalend 458 of the socket portion 454 comprises a plurality of raisedsurfaces 460 each surface having a single or dual port 462, each portintegrated with a release port 466. Dual ports 462 are integrated, suchthat they share a cavity 468 for the insertion of a wire lead. Eachraised surface 460 is further disposed with indicia 470. The socketportion 454 contains six ports 462 comprising a single fan port 462 a,dual light port 462 b, dual neutral port 462 c, and single ground port462 d, identified as such by corresponding indicia 470 comprising fanindicia 470 a, light indicia 470 b, neutral indicia 470 c, and groundindicia 470 d, respectively. The socket portion 454 further comprises ajumper 464, facilitating the electrical connection between either one ortwo live wire leads.

In FIG. 27, the distal end 458 of the plug portion 452 has five ports462, comprising single fan 462 a, single light 462 b, single neutral 462c, and dual ground 462 d ports, identified as such by corresponding fanindicia 470 a, light indicia 470 b, neutral indicia 470 c, and groundindicia 470 d, respectively.

In FIG. 28, the plug 452 and socket 454 portions have been disconnected.The proximal ends 456 of the portions comprise two plugs 472 and sockets474, adapted to releasably connect to one another, which uponconnection, electrically couple wire leads inserted into the ports 462to one another.

In further variations, the plug portion 452 may comprise a single plug472 and the socket portion 454 may comprise a single socket 474, or maycomprise any number of plugs 472 or sockets 474 corresponding to theports 462. The indicia 470 may further comprise colors, symbols, icons,shapes, or otherwise which may correspond to a particular wire lead orport 462.

Another embodiment of a push-in connector 516 is illustrated in FIGS.29-31. Beginning with FIG. 29, the push-in connector 516, comprises aplug portion 524 and a socket portion 526 which releasably connect toone another at a proximal end 528. Each portion, opposite of theproximal end 528, is enclosed by a cap comprising the distal end 530.Each distal end 530 couples to each respective portion with a push-lock532.

The distal end 530 disposed on the plug portion 524 has five ports 540,while any number of ports 540 is contemplated. Each port 540 may be asingle port 542 for receiving a single wire lead or may be a dual port540 for receiving two wire leads. The five ports 540 may comprise asingle fan port 540 a, single light port 540 b, single neutral port, 540c, and dual ground ports 540 d. Each port 540 is further disposed with arelease port 554 for accepting a release member. Each port 540 andcomplementary release port 554 are integrated such that they share acavity 534 providing access to the internal components of the push-inconnector 516, later described in the discussion of FIG. 31.

The distal ends 530, on both the plug 524 and socket 526 portions, alsocontain a plurality of indicia 560, each corresponding to a port 540disposed on the distal end 530 for receiving the insertion of aparticular wire lead. While the indicia 560 disposed on the distal end530 are shown as symbols of a fan 560 a, light 560 b, neutral (notshown), and ground 560 d, best seen in both FIGS. 29 and 30, the indicia560 may comprise any colors, symbols, icons, shapes or otherwise whichmay indicate the insertion of a particular wire lead into acorresponding port 540. As may be appreciated, the fan indicia 560 a,light indicia 560 b, neutral indicia (not shown), and ground indicia 560d correspond to the fan port 540 a, light port 540 b, neutral port 540c, and ground port 540 d respectively.

A jumper 564 is incorporated as a slide member 566 on the side of thesocket portion 526. The jumper 564 may operate by sliding the slidemember 566 along a channel 572 disposed within the side of the socketportion 526 between a first jumper indicia 568 corresponding to a firstposition for a single-switch wiring scenario, and a second jumperindicia 570 corresponding to a second position for a dual-switch wiringscenario. The distal end 530 disposed on the socket portion 526 isshaped to extend the channel 572. and further comprises both jumperindicia 568, 570 between which the slide member 566 may be slid. Theslide member 566 may further contain indicia 560, shown as an arrow,corresponding to either jumper indicia 568, 570 when slid along thechannel 572.

FIG. 30 shows the distal end 530 on the end of the socket portion 526 ofthe push-in connector 516. The distal end 530 on the socket portion 526has six ports 540, comprising single fan 540 a, dual light 540 b, dualneutral 540 c, and single ground 540 d ports, with each port 540 havingan incorporated release port 554. Each port 540 is associated withcorresponding indicia 560, having light 560 b and ground 560 d indiciasymbols shown. The proximal ends 528 secure with a lock 580, comprisinga male component 582 and female component 584 (FIG. 31) associated withthe plug portion 524 and socket portion 526 respectively.

Turning to FIG. 31, the organization and composition of the internalelectrical components of the push-in connector 516 of FIGS. 29 and 30may be seen. Each distal end 530 has been exploded from the plug 524 andsocket 526 portions 526 of the push-in connector 516, and a plurality ofbusbars 590 are now viewable.

The underside of the distal end 530 corresponding to the plug portion524 contains a plurality of supports 536. The ports 540 and releaseports 554, on the underside of each distal end 530, have supports 536disposed on either side for supporting and aligning the busbars 590 withtheir corresponding ports 540. Each distal end 530 also contains aplurality of push-lock male components 532 a comprising half of thepush-lock 532 of FIGS. 29 and 30.

The plug portion 524 has a plurality of push-lock female components 532b disposed within it for receiving the push-lock male components 532 adisposed on the distal end 530. The plug portion 524 comprises the malecomponent 582 of the lock 580, used to secure the plug 524 and socketportions 526 together. The plug portion 524 further comprises four plugs546 extending from the plug portion 524 adapted for insertion into thesocket portion 526. The plugs 546 may be disposed in a keyed manner,allowing insertion into the socket portion 526 in a single orientation.

The socket portion 526 is disposed with a plurality of sockets 548 forreceiving the slidable insertion of the plugs 546 from the plug portion524. The distal end 530 is exploded from the socket portion 526,exposing a series of non-conductive walls 586 defining a plurality ofinternal recesses 588. Each internal recess 588 is adapted to receiveone busbar 590 such that insertion of a wire lead through the port 540on the distal end 530 will extend into one internal recess 588,electrically and mechanically coupling to a busbar 590. A jumper recess588 a, partially disposed within the channel 572, is disposed in amanner allowing communication between two adjacent internal recesses 588which may be used to electrically couple or uncouple two busbars 590disposed within the adjacent internal recesses 588 upon sliding theslide member 566. The socket portion 526 is further disposed withpush-lock female components similar to that of the plug portion 524, andhas the complementary female component 584 to the male component 582 ofthe plug portion 524 which, upon interconnection, comprises the lock 580of FIG. 30.

The distal end 530 associated with the socket portion 526 is disposedwith a plurality of supports 536, similar to that of the distal end 530associated with the plug portion 524, while only partially visible.

The plurality of busbars 590 may comprise different types of busbars 590including but not limited to, a single busbar 592, dual busbar 594,single jumper busbar 592 a, and dual jumper busbar 594 a. Busbars 590generally have one engagement ridge 598, while single busbars 592 haveone spring finger 596 and dual busbars 594 have two spring fingers 596.Each jumper busbar 592 a, 594 a has an additional engagement ridge 598 afor electrically coupling to one another via the jumper 564.

While not visible in FIG. 31 for the plug portion 524, both the plugportion 524 and the socket portion 526 comprise a corresponding systemof non-conductive walls 586 defining a plurality of internal recesses588. The internal recesses 588 receive the busbars 590, securing andaligning the busbars 590 with respective ports 540, plugs 546, orsockets 548. The corresponding systems of walls 586 between the plug 524and socket 526 portions are designed to electrically couplecorresponding wire leads, as may be identified by the indicia 560, uponcoupling the plug 524 and socket portions 526.

The jumper 564 comprises a conductive component 562 a and anon-conductive component 562 b extending from the slide member 566internally of the socket portion 526 within a jumper recess 588 a. Uponsliding the slide member 566 into a dual switch position, the conductivematerial of the conductive component 562 a of the jumper 564electrically couples jumper engagement ridges 598 a of the jumperbusbars 592 a, 594 a disposed within the internal recesses 588 adjacentto the jumper recess 588 a. Sliding the slide member 566 to the singleswitch set-up position, moves the non-conductive component 562 betweenthe adjacent busbars 590 in adjacent internal recesses 588, returning topush-in connector 516 to a single switch wiring scenario.

The spring fingers 596 protrude from the busbars 590 at an angle, andmay flex to accommodate the insertion a wire lead into a port 540. Atinsertion, the spring finger 596 compresses, accommodating the insertionof the wire lead and secures the wire lead against a wall 586 within thepush-in connector 516 while simultaneously electrically coupling thewire lead to the busbar 590. During removal of the wire lead, a releasetool may be inserted into the release port 554, pushing the springfinger 596 away from the wire lead, facilitating wire lead removal.

The engagement ridges 598 extend from the busbar 590 at an end oppositeof the spring finger 596. Each engagement ridge 598 comprises a curvedshape, which may flex or bend at the body of one of the busbars 590 toslide over a second, complementary engagement ridge 598 of anotherbusbar 590. Upon engagement of the two engagement ridges 598, the twobusbars 590 associated therewith electrically couple to one another. Theengagement ridges 598 on the busbars 590 extend from the plug 524 andsocket 526 portions within the plugs 546 and sockets 548 such thatconnection between the two portions 524, 526 electrically couples theinternal busbars 590 at complementary engagement ridges 598 in bothportions 524, 526. During separation of the plug 524 and socket 526portions, the engagement ridges 598 slide back over and apart from oneanother, slightly bending or flexing at the body of the busbar 590, inthe same manner in which they were engaged.

Regarding the push-in connector 516 of FIGS. 29-31, while the distal end530 with six ports 540 is generally intended to orient towards the fanmotor assembly, the push-in connector 516 may be oriented in eitherdirection. In further variations, the distal ends 530 may be disposedwith any number of ports 540 having a plug 524 and socket 526 portionwith associated busbars 590 corresponding to the ports 540. Theembodiment shown is exemplary and meant to be non-limiting.

Another embodiment of a push-in connector 616 is shown in FIGS. 32 and33, in which the push-in connector 616 combines into a single unitwithout releasably connectable plug and socket portions as compared toother embodiments. In FIG. 32 the push-in connector 616 comprises anupper member 620 and a lower member 622, with each member 620, 622having a distal end 630. The distal ends 630 comprise a plurality ofridges 646 defining single or dual ports 640 wherein the dual ports mayshare a cavity 650 for accepting wire insertion. The upper and lowermembers 620, 622 have beveled edges 632, with each beveled edge 632having indicia 660 corresponding to a port 640. The upper member 620, onone side, comprises a jumper 664 with a jumper switch 666. The jumpermay be operated by actuating the jumper switch 666.

Referring to FIG. 33, the distal ends 630 are further disposed withbeveled edges 632 permitting insertion within the upper and lowermembers 620, 622. The upper member 620 further comprises a juniperopening 670 for receiving the jumper 664. Both the upper and lowermembers 620, 622 are hollow, defining internal recesses 688. Within eachinternal recess 688 is a busbar 690, which comprises a plurality ofspring fingers 696. Upon insertion of wire leads into correspondingports 640 on opposite distal ends 630, the wire leads are electricallycoupled to one another. The juniper 664 further comprises a set ofprongs 668 extending from the juniper 664. The prongs 668 are operablyconnected to the jumper switch 666 such that actuation of the jumperswitch 666 correspondingly moves the prongs 668. In a dual wiringscenario, the prongs 668 will contact the internal busbars 690 such thattwo adjacent busbars 690 are electrically coupled.

FIGS. 34-36 show another embodiment of a push-in connector in the formof a quadrant-style push-in connector 716 combinable into a single unitwithout releasably connectable plug and socket portions as compared toother embodiments. Turning to FIG. 34, the push-in connector 716comprises a body 722 having a set of four quadrants 720, each beingidentified by indicia 760 disposed on the side of the each quadrant 720.Each quadrant 720 may be equally sized, the combination of which forms acylindrical shaped body 722. Alternatively, each quadrant 720 may beuniquely sized, such that the combination of all quadrants 720 completesthe push-in connector 716. Each quadrant 720 has two distal ends 730disposed on either end of each quadrant 720. Each distal end 730 has aset of two wire ports 740 and two release ports 754. The ports 740 andrelease ports 754 may be separated from one another or integrated into asingle port.

At least some of the distal ends 730 of the quadrants may contain ajumper-key recess 756 for accepting a jumper 764 into two adjacent ports740 among two adjacent quadrants 720. The distal ends 730 may bearranged between adjacent quadrants 720 such that the jumper-keyrecesses 756 combine into a particular combination for the insertion ofa jumper 764 into a particular position among two adjacent quadrants720. For example, the jumper-key recesses 756 may be arranged among anadjacent light and fan quadrants 720 such that the insertion of a jumper764 would permit control of the light units and fan from two wallswitches. In the illustrated embodiment, the neutral and groundquadrants 720, as identified by their indicia 760, are not provided withjumper-key recesses 756, and so do not receive the jumper 764.

Turning now to FIG. 35, the opposite end of the push-in connector 716with a jumper 764 inserted into ports 740 between two adjacent quadrants720 is shown. The jumper 764 further comprises a jumper ridge 766,extending from one side of the jumper 764. The jumper ridge 766 isshaped to fit particularly within the jumper-key recesses 756 such thatthe jumper 764 may only be inserted in a single orientation amongadjacent accepting ports 740.

Turning to FIG. 36, an exploded view of the push-in connector 716 isshown. Each quadrant 720 includes an inner edge 762 having one or moremale keys 780 and female keys 782. The male 780 and female 782 keys aredisposed along the inner edges 762 of the quadrants 720 such thatcombination of the quadrants 720 may only be arranged in a particularcombination. In one example, the quadrants 720 may be keyed to combinesuch that the light and fan quadrants 720 are adjacent to one another,accommodating the insertion of the jumper 764 between the two quadrants720 and enabling single or dual wall switch wiring scenarios. Invariations, the male 780 and female 782 keys may be disposed allowingany combination of quadrants 720, being keyed or non-keyed.

The quadrants 720 are hollow, and include an internal recess 788 forreceiving a busbar 790. The internal recess 788 is further defined by aprotrusion 784 within each quadrant 720. The busbar 790 contains fourspring fingers 796, electrically coupled to one another, with two springfingers 796 disposed on either end of the busbar 790. Upon insertion,the busbars 790 are disposed within the internal recess 788 such that aninserted wire is held against the protrusion 784 by the spring finger796. Each distal end 730 further comprises a separator 786 which extendsbetween the two spring fingers 796 disposed on either side of the busbar790. The separator 786 prevents two wires inserted into a singlequadrant 720 from contacting one another or may further be used as asurface in which a spring finger 796 secures a wire.

The jumper 764 further comprises jumper prongs 768 extending therefrom.The jumper prongs 768 are inserted into ports 740 among adjacentquadrants 720 where the jumper-key recesses 756 permit the insertion ofthe jumper 764. Upon insertion, the prongs 768 contact the springfingers 796 of the busbars 790 within the quadrants 720, electricallycoupling the busbars 790 and facilitating a dual switch wiring scenario.

Another embodiment of a push-in connector 816 is shown in FIGS. 37-41,in which the push-in connector 816 is a four-port embodiment. In FIG.37, the push-in connector 816 comprises a body 820 covered on oppositeends by two distal ends 830. Each distal end 830 couples to the body 820with a push-lock 832. The distal ends 830 are identical, each comprisingfour ports 840 having four corresponding release buttons 854 identifiedas such by four indicia 860. Each port 840 and associated release button854 may comprise further indicia such as colors, icons, or symbols,identifying a particular wire for insertion. FIG. 38, showing a top viewof the push-in connector 816, is exemplary of how the ports 840, releasebuttons 854, and indicia 860 may be disposed.

FIG. 39 is a top view of the push-in connector 816 with the distal end830 removed to show the internal components of the push-in connector816. The push-in connector 816 comprises internal walls 886 defining aplurality of internal recesses 888. Each internal recess 888 isassociated with a busbar 890, a spring member 896, and a release member856. Each spring member 896 aligns beneath an associated port 840 (FIG.37) for accepting the insertion of a wire lead. The busbar 890 isdisposed within each internal recess 888, opposite from the springmember 896, such that the spring member 896 will press an inserted wirelead against the busbar 890. The release members 856 are alignedadjacent to the spring member 896 and operable coupled with one of therelease buttons 854, such that depression of the release button 854pushes the release member 856 against the spring member 896, bending thespring member 896 away from the busbar 890. The bent spring member 896permits removal of an inserted wire lead, normally secured by the springmember 896 against the busbar 890.

Turning to FIG. 40, taken at the cross-section Y-Y of FIG. 37, theinternal recess 888, as defined by the internal walls 886, situates thespring member 896 opposite the busbar 890. The spring member 896 alignsagainst an inner internal wall 886, and has a finger 898 extendingacross the internal recess 888 to the busbar 890. The release member856, extending from the corresponding release button 854, rests againstthe finger 898, adjacent to where an inserted wire may contact thefinger 898. Each busbar 890 extends along an outer internal wall 886between two corresponding internal recesses 888 disposed on oppositeends of the push-in connector 816.

Turning to FIG. 41, also taken at the cross-section Y-Y of FIG. 37, aninserted wire lead 842 having a wire tip 844 is pressed against thebusbar 890 by the finger 898 of the spring member 896. While not shown,another wire lead may be inserted into the corresponding ports 840disposed on the end 830 of the push-in connector 816 to electricallycouple with the illustrate wire lead 842 via the busbar 890. To releasethe inserted wire lead 842, the release button 854 corresponding to theport 840 in which the lead 842 is inserted is depressed, forcing therelease member 856 against the finger 898. The finger 898 bends backwardtoward the inner internal wall 886, releasing the inserted wire lead 842and permitting removal. After removing the wire lead 842, the releasebutton 854 is released, returning the release member 856 and thus thefinger 898 to an initial position, prepared to accept the insertion ofanother wire lead 842.

Turning now to FIGS. 42-46, an eight-port embodiment of a push-inconnector 916 is shown. Referring to FIG. 42, the push-in connector 916is generally cubic, but may comprise any shape, and comprises a body918. The body 918 is comprised of four sides 920, having beveled edges922 separating the sides 920. The four sides 920 are enclosed onopposite ends by distal ends 930. The distal ends 930, having the sameconfiguration as each other, are each provided with eight ports 940 foraccepting the insertion of a wire lead. In variations of the push-inconnector 916, the distal ends 930 may have a different number of ports940 or may be dissimilar from one another. As may be appreciated, theeight ports 940 are separated into four sets 942 of two ports 940, eachport 940 in each set 942 being separated by a release button 954disposed between the two ports 940. The arrangement of the ports 940,comprising four sets 942 with a release button 954 disposed between theports 940 of one set 942, is best appreciated in FIG. 43.

In FIG. 44, a system of internal walls 986 defines a plurality ofinternal recesses 988. Each internal recess 988 comprises two busbars990, two spring members 996 and one release member 956. Each springmember 996 is situated comprises a portion below a port 940, disposedagainst the inner surface of the sides 920 of the body 918, andcorresponds to one busbar 990. A wire lead inserted into the port 940may contact the spring member 996 and be secured against a busbar 990.The release member 956, associated with one corresponding release button954 (FIG. 43), extends between both spring members 996, permitting thesimultaneous release of two wire leads being inserted into both ports940 of one set 942.

Referring to FIG. 45, taken at the cross-section Z-Z of FIG. 42, eachspring member 996 comprises a finger 998 extending from the springmember 996 disposed against the inner surface of one side 920 of thebody 918, toward the busbar 990 disposed against one of the internalwalls 986.

Referring to FIG. 46, also taken at the cross-section Z-Z of FIG. 42,the push-in connector 916 is shown with depressed release button 954 atthe bottom, and inserted wiring leads at the top, having the releasebuttons 954 and release members 956 removed from the Figure. The finger998 is situated within the internal recess 988 such that the insertionof a wire lead 944 having a wire tip 946 will bend the finger 998 towardthe outer wall while forcing the wire lead 944 into contact with thebusbar 990, securing the wire lead 944 against the busbar 990. Therelease member 956 is angled where depression of the release button 954,as shown, contacts the release member 956 and pushes the finger 998 awayfrom the busbar 990, permitting the removal of an inserted wire lead.After removal of one or more wire leads from the ports 940, the releasebutton 954 may be released and the finger 998 and release member 956will return to their initial position.

Turning now to FIGS. 47 and 48, a seven-port embodiment of a push-inconnector 1016 is shown. In FIG. 47, the push-in connector 1016 has abody 1020 comprising four unequal quadrants 1022 and two distal ends1030. In the embodiment shown, three quadrants 1022 a have an equal sizewhile a fourth quadrant 1022 b is smaller. Variations on this embodimentmay comprise quadrants 1022 having multiple or differing sizes, beingequal or unequal to one another. Each quadrant 1022 may contain indicia1060 corresponding to a port 1040 on the distal end 1030 or a particularwire lead for insertion. The indicia 1060 may further comprise singleswitch indicia 1068 or dual switch indicia 1070, corresponding to theinsertion of wire leads for a single or dual switch wiring scenarios,respectively. The single switch indicia 1068 may be disposed on a largerquadrant 1022 a, identified, for example, as a fan quadrant 1022 a byindicia 1060. The dual switch indicia may be disposed on the smallquadrant 1022 b, for example, as identified by light indicia 1060 b. Infurther variations, the switch indicia 1068, 1070 may be disposed on anyquadrant 1022 identified by any indicia 1060.

Each distal end 1030 comprises a single unit, but may be divided bygrooves 1062 in sections to correspond to the size of the quadrants1022, and couples to the assembled body 1020 with a push-lock 1032. Eachdistal end 1030 has seven ports 1040 disposed such that each of thethree larger quadrants 1022 a has two ports 1040, while the smallerquadrant 1022 b has one port 1040 and a release port 1054. In avariation, the release port 1054 and the port 1040 of the smallerquadrant 1022 b may be combined into an integrated port. The remainingsix ports 1040 on the three larger quadrants 1022 a are each associatedwith a corresponding release port 1054 disposed on the side of thequadrant 1022 a for accepting the insertion of a release tool in anorientation perpendicular to the insertion of wire leads into the ports1040.

FIG. 48 is an exploded view of the push-in connector 1016. The undersideof one distal end 1030 is visible, and has ridges 1042 associated withthe ports 1040 aligning with the three larger quadrants 1022 a. Eachridge 1042 contains a male push-lock member 1036 designed to be acceptedinto a female push-lock member 1034 on the body 1020, which togetherform the push-lock 1032. Internally, the body 1020 comprises a system ofwalls 1086 defining internal recesses 1088. Each internal recess 1088that is associated with one of the larger quadrants 1022 a has aseparator 1050 with a separator channel 1052. The separators 1050 extendinto the internal recess 1088 from the outer wall of body 1020, betweenadjacent internal walls 1086. The internal recess 1088 associated withthe smaller quadrant 1022 b has a support 1056, disposed toward thecenter of the body 1020.

Within each internal recess 1088 is a busbar 1090. Busbars 1090 aassociated with the larger quadrants 1022 a contain a busbar channel1094, which inserts into the separator channel 1052, securing andaligning the busbar 1090 a within the push-in connector 1016. The busbar1090 b associated with the small quadrant 1022 b comprises a hook shapeand inserts over the support 1056 such that the elbow of the hook-shapedbusbar 1090 b rests against the top of the support 1056.

Additionally, within each internal recess 1088 associated with eachlarger quadrant 1022 a is a dual spring member 1092 a. Each dual springmember 1092 a contains four spring fingers 1096 for securing a wire leadagainst the busbar 1090 a. The dual spring member 1092 a associated witheach of the large quadrants 1022 a, slides into each internal recess1088 between the walls 1086 and the separator 1050, wherein theseparator 1050 holds the spring member 1092 a aligned such that onespring finger 1096 corresponds to one port 1040. The spring fingers 1096further align with the busbars 1090 a, and may secure an inserted wirelead against the busbar 1090 a. Regarding the small quadrant 1022 b, asingle spring member 1092 b is disposed against the outer wall of thequadrant 1022 b. The spring member 1092 b includes two spring fingers1096 that align with the ports 1040 of the small quadrant 1022 b, andsecures an inserted wire lead against the busbar 1090 b within thesmaller quadrant 1022 b.

In variations, the ports 1040 and release ports 1054 may be disposed onthe sides of the quadrants 1022 or the distal ends 1030 or anycombination thereof. The busbars 1090 and spring members 1092 havingspring fingers 1096 may further be disposed near an internal wall 1086or an outer wall of each quadrant 1022, being associated with a busbar1090. The organization of the ports 1040, as associated with aparticular quadrant 1022, internal recess 1088, busbar 1090, or springfinger 1096 may vary, such that one or more wire leads inserted into oneend of the push-in connector 1016 may electrically couple with one ormore different wire leads inserted into the other end of the push-inconnector 1016.

FIGS. 49 and 50 show a release tool 1100 that is adapted to insert intothe release ports of any embodiment of the push-in connector disclosedherein that utilizes a release port. FIG. 49 shows the release tool 1100having both a single release member 1102 and a dual release member 1104.A rigid body 1106 disposed within a housing 1108 connects the releasemembers 1102, 1104 into a single unit. The housing 1108 may be made ofsoft, non-conductive materials such as rubber or plastic, while othermaterials are contemplated. Turning to FIG. 50, each release member1102, 1104 may bend perpendicular to the body 1106, facilitating ease ofuse based upon the needs of a particular push-in connector.

In use, either the single release member 1102 or the dual release member1104, depending on the particular push-in connector, may be insertedinto one or more release ports on any of the push-in connectorsdisclosed herein. Upon insertion, the release member 1102, 1104 contactsa spring finger or any other release mechanism designed to release awire lead, and pushes the spring finger away from the wire lead,permitting removal.

Turning now to FIGS. 51-58, schematic views of embodiments of push-inconnectors and their respective electrical connections are shown. Eachsection containing a “G”, “N”, “F”, or “L” represents a port 1240disposed within a push-in connector 1216. Hereinafter, as shown, the “G”represents a ground or green port, the “N” represents a neutral or whiteport, the “F” represents a fan or live black port, and “L” represents alight or live blue port. Each port 1240 may be labelled with indiciashown as colors, icons, symbols, or any other representative labellingcorresponding to a particular wire for insertion.

FIGS. 52 and 54 show wiring scenarios utilizing two live wires forcontrolling a. ceiling fan motor and light unit from two controllers,independent of one another, such as from two separate wall switches.Alternatively, FIGS. 56 and 58 show wiring scenarios utilizing a singlelive wire for controlling a ceiling fan motor from a single controller,which may simultaneously operate both the fan motor and the light unit.In variations on any of the scenarios, one or two live wires may beutilized in any embodiment, enabling either wiring scenario, controllingthe fan motor and light unit from one or two sources.

Turning to FIG. 51, a first wiring scenario 1200, with a push-inconnector 1216, such as the eight-port push-in connector of FIG. 42, isshown as mounted within a canopy 1242, but may alternatively mount to ahanger bracket 1260. A downrod 1222, pre-wired or otherwise, is mountedto and extends from the hanger bracket 1260. Alternate embodiments mayutilize any other push-in connectors as disclosed herein. Turning now toFIG. 52, electrical wiring leads 1214 a, 1214 c, 1214 d, 1214 e from aceiling 1212 may couple to the push-in connector 1216 and fan wiringleads 1220 a-1220 d from a fan motor assembly 1218 may couple to thepush-in connector 1216 opposite of the electrical wiring leads 1214 a,1214 c, 1214 d, 11214 e, electrically coupling the fan motor assembly1218 to the structure power supply.

Electrical wiring leads 1214 a, 1214 c, 11214 d, 1214 e comprising alive black wire 1214 a, white neutral wire 1214 c, two green groundwires 1214 d, and live red wire 1214 e electrically couple to thepush-in connector 1216 at the black fan port F, white neutral port N,two green ground ports G and blue light port L, respectively. Theceiling fan wiring leads 1220 a, 1220 b, 1220 c, 1220 d comprising ablack fan wire 1220 a, blue light wire 1220 b, white neutral wire 1220c, and green ground wire 1220 d electrically couple to the black fanport F, the blue light port L, the white neutral port N, and the greenground port G, respectively. Utilizing the push-in connector 1216facilitates easy wiring between the structure electrical supply and thefan motor and light unit.

Turning now to FIG. 53, a second wiring setup 1202 with a first push-inconnector 1216 a having eight ports, such as the push-in connector ofFIG. 42, mounts within the canopy 1242, but may alternatively mount tothe hanger bracket 1260, and a second push-in connector 1216 b, such asthe push-in connector of FIG. 37, mounts within the pre-wired downrod1222. In variations, any push-in connector embodiment may be substitutedfor either push-in connector 1216 a, 1216 b.

Turning to FIG. 54, electrical wiring leads 1214 a, 1214 c, 1214 d, 1214e from the ceiling 1212 couple to the first push-in connector 1216 a andfan wiring leads 1220 a-1220 d from the fan motor assembly 1218 coupleto the second push-in connector 1216 b. The fan wiring leads 1220 a-1220d are electrically couples to the electrical wiring leads 1214 a, 1214c, 1214 d, 1214 e by coupling the two push-in connectors 1216 a, 1216 bto one another using downrod wiring leads 1270 a-1270 d, providingelectrical power to the fan motor assembly 1218.

Electrical wiring leads 1214 a, 1214 c, 1214 d, 1214 e comprising thelive black wire 1214 a, white neutral wire 1214 c, two green groundwires 1214 d, and live red wire 1214 e couple to the black fan port F,white neutral port N, two green ground ports G, and blue light port L,respectively, of the first push-in connector 1216 a. On the opposite endof the first push-in connector 1216 a, downrod wiring leads 1270 a-1270d comprising the black fan wire 1270 a, blue light wire 1270 b, whiteneutral wire 1270 c, and green ground wire 1270 d electrically couple toblack fan port F, blue light port L, white neutral port N, and greenground port G, respectively, on both of the push-in connectors 1216 a,1216 b. The second push-in connector 1216 b, opposite of the downrodwiring leads 1270 a-1270 d, couples to the fan wiring leads 1220 a-1220d comprising the black fan wire 1220 a, blue light wire 1220 b, whiteneutral wire 1220 c, and green ground wire 1220 d to the black fan portF, blue light port L, white neutral port N, and green ground port G,respectively. Upon completing the push-in connections between thepush-in connectors 1216 a, 1216 b, the fan motor assembly 1218electrically couples to the structure power supply. Utilizing bothpush-in connectors 1216 a, 1216 b facilitates easy wiring connections,enabling an installer to quickly connect wiring leads from both thestructure and the fan motor assembly 1218. After mounting the ceilingfan assembly to the ceiling 1212, the electrical connections may bequickly and easily completed by connecting wiring leads between the twopush-in connectors 1216 a, 1216 b.

FIG. 55 shows a third wiring set-up 1204, with two push-in connectors1216 a, 1216 b disposed within the canopy 1242, including the firstpush-in connector 1216 a, which may have eight ports 1240 disposedeither ends, and the second push-in connector 1216 b which may have fourports 1240 disposed on either ends. The first push-in connector 1216 amay comprise the push-in connector of FIG. 42 and the second push-inconnector 1216 b may comprise the push-in connector of FIG. 37. Invariations, any push-in connector disclosed herein, having any number ofports 1240 may be utilized in place of either push-in connector 1216 a,1216 b. The push-in connectors 1216 a, 1211 b may either mount to thecanopy 1242 or to the hanger bracket 1260. A receiver 1272, forreceiving a signal from a remote source, mounts within the canopy 1242and may mount to either the canopy 1242 or the hanger bracket 1260.

Turning to FIG. 56, the electrical wiring leads 1214 a, 1214 c, 1214 dcouple to the first push-in connector 1216 a and the first push-inconnector 1216 a couples to the second push-in connector 1216 b,interconnecting the receiver 1272 between them. The second push-inconnector 1216 b couples to the fan wiring leads 1220 a-1220 d,electrically coupling the fan motor assembly 1218 and the receiver 1272to the structure power supply.

Electrical wiring leads 1214 a, 1214 c, 1214 d comprising the live blackwire 1214 a, white neutral wire 1214 c, and two green ground wires 1214d couple to the first push-in connector 1216 a. The set of downrodwiring leads 1270 a-1270 d utilized with a set of receiver wiring leads1274 a, 1274 c interconnect the receiver 1272 and the two push-inconnectors 1216 a, 1216 b. The white neutral wire 1270 c and greenground wire 1270 d couple the two push-in connectors 1216 a, 1216 b atthe white neutral port N and green ground port G, respectively, whilethe black fan wire 1270 a and the blue light wire 1270 b couple to theblack fan port F and blue light port L of the second push-in connector1216 b, coupling the second push-in connector 1216 b to the receiver1272. The receiver wiring leads comprising the black fan wire 1274 a andwhite neutral wire 1274 c, couple the first push-in connector 1216 a tothe receiver 1272 at the black fan port F and white neutral port C,respectively. At completion of the connection of the downrod wiringleads 1270 a-1270 d and the receiver wiring leads 1274 a, 1274 c, thefirst push-in connector 1216 a is electrically coupled to the secondpush-in connector 1216 b with the receiver 1272 electrically coupledbetween the two.

Fan wiring leads 1220 a-1220 d comprising the black fan wire 1220 a,blue light wire 1220 b, white neutral wire 1220 c, and green ground wire1220 d are coupled to the black fan port F, blue light port L, whiteneutral port C, and green ground port G, respectively, at the remainingend of the second push-in connector 1216 b. The completed connectionselectrically couple the fan motor assembly 1218 to the structure powersupply while simultaneously providing power to the receiver 1272.

Utilizing both push-in connectors 1216 a, 1216 b facilitates easy wiringconnections, enabling an installer to quickly connect wiring leads fromboth the ceiling 1212 and the fan motor assembly 1218. The ceiling fanassembly may be mounted to the ceiling while wiring connections may bequickly and easily completed without the need to hold the fan duringwiring.

FIG. 57 shows a fourth wiring set-up 1206 with three push-in connectors1216 a, 1216 b, 1216 c. The first push-in connector 1216 a, receiver1272, and second push-in connector 1216 b are disposed within the canopy1242, and the third push-in connector 1216 c is disposed within thepre-wired downrod 1222. The first push-in connector 1216 a may comprisethe push-in connector of FIG. 42 and the second and third push-inconnectors 1216 b, 1216 c may comprise the push-in connector of FIG. 37.In variations, the push-in connectors 1216 a, 1216 b, 1216 c maycomprise any embodiment of the push-in connector described herein andmay comprise any combination thereof utilizing any number of ports.

Turning to FIG. 58, electrical wiring leads 1214 a, 1214 c, 1214 d fromthe ceiling 1212 may couple to the first push-in connector 1216 a, whichmay in turn couple to the receiver 1272 and the second push-in connector1216 b by utilizing wiring leads 1270 a-1270 d and receiver wiring leads1274 a, 1274 c. The second push-in connector 1216 b may electricallycouple to the third push-in connector 1216 c in the pre-wired downrod1222 with additional downrod wiring leads 1270 a-1270 d, whichelectrically couple to the fan motor assembly 1218 with fan wiring leads1220 a-1220 d. Upon completion of the electrical connections, the motorand the light unit are electrically coupled to the structure powersupply while simultaneously providing power to the receiver 1272.

Electrical wiring leads 1214 a, 1214 c, 1214 d comprising the black livewire 1214 a, white neutral wire 1214 c, and two green ground wires 1214d couple to the first push-in connector 1216 a at the black fan port F,white neutral port N, and two green ground ports G, respectively. On theopposite end of the first push-in connector 1216 a, the white neutralwire 1270 c and green ground wire 1270 d couple to the white neutralport N and green ground port G, respectively. Further, receiver wiringleads 1274 a, 1274 c comprising the black fan wire 1274 a and whiteneutral wire 1274 c couple the receiver 1272 to the first push-inconnector 1216 a at the black fan port F and a second white neutral portN, respectively. The receiver 1272 also couples to the second push-inconnector 1216 b with wiring leads comprising the black fan wire 1270 aand blue light wire 1270 b coupling to the black fan port F and bluelight port L, respectively.

The second push-in connector 1216 b electrically couples to the thirdpush-in connector 1216 c with downrod wiring leads 1270 a-1270 dcomprising the black fan wire 1270 a, blue light wire 1270 b, whiteneutral wire 1270 c, and green ground wire 1270 d being inserted intothe black fan ports F, blue light ports L, white neutral ports N, andgreen ground ports G, respectively, of each push-in connector 1216 b,1216 c.

The third push-in connector 1216 c couples to the fan motor assembly1218 with fan wiring leads 1220 a-1220 d comprising the black fan wire1220 a, blue light wire 1220 b, white neutral wire 1220 c, and greenground wire 1220 d being inserted into the black fan port F, blue lightport L, white neutral port N, and green ground port G, respectively. Atcompletion of the push-in wiring connections, the fan motor assembly1218 electrically couples to the structure power supply whilesimultaneously providing power to the receiver 1272.

Utilizing all three push-in connectors 1216 a, 1216 b, 1216 cfacilitates easy wiring connections, enabling an installer to quicklyconnect wiring leads from both the structure and the fan motor assembly.After mounting the ceiling fan assembly to the structure, the electricalconnections may be quickly and easily completed by connecting wiringleads between the two push-in connectors within the canopy as well asconnect to the push-in connector within the downrod after mounting thedownrod to the hanger bracket.

As has been previously described herein, the components and electricalconnections described in FIGS. 51-58 are by way of example only and arenot limiting. Variations on the amount and type of push-in connectors1216, wiring connections, and components such as the canopy 1242, hanger1260, pre-wired downrod 1222, and receiver 1272, are contemplated, inwhich some elements may be optional. The wiring leads comprisingelectrical wiring leads 1214, fan wiring leads 1220, downrod wiringleads 1270, and receiver wiring leads 1274 may be varied or implementedin alternative manners such that an electrical connection is madebetween incorporated components.

Utilizing all three push-in connectors facilitates easy wiringconnections, enabling an installer to quickly connect wiring leads fromboth the structure and the fan motor assembly. After mounting theceiling fan assembly to the structure, the electrical connections may bequickly and easily completed by connecting wiring leads between the twopush-in connectors within the canopy as well as connect to the push-inconnector within the downrod after mounting the downrod to the hangerbracket.

As has been previously described herein, the components and electricalconnections described in FIGS. 51-58 are by way of example only and arenot limiting. Variations on the amount and type of push-in connectors1216, wiring connections, and components such as the canopy 1242,pre-wired downrod 1222, receiver 1272, and push-in connectors 1216 arecontemplated, in which some elements may be optional. The wiring leadscomprising electrical wiring leads 1214 a-1214 e, fan wiring leads 1220a-1220 d, downrod wiring leads 1270 a-1270 d, and receiver wiring leads1274 a, 1274 c may be varied or implemented in alternative manners suchthat an electrical connection is made between incorporated components.

Turning now to FIGS. 59 and 60, a push-in connector which may support adual switch wiring scenario without the use of a jumper is shown. FIG.59 shows the push-in connector 1316 comprises a body 1320 having a plugportion 1324 and a socket portion 1326, each comprising a distal end1330 having a plurality of ports 1340 associated with a plurality ofrelease ports 1354. The plug portion 1324 and the socket portion 1326are releasably connectable at a proximal end of both portions 1324,1326. The ports 1340 and release ports 1354 are connected by a pluralityof internal recesses 1388 as defined by a series of internal walls 1386disposed within the body 1320 of the push-in connector 16.

In the socket portion 1326, one internal recess 1388 has a short busbar1390 b, comprising a spring finger 1396 and a busbar prong 1380, whilethe remaining internal recesses 1388 may comprise a standard lengthbusbar 1390 a comprising both a spring finger 1396 and an engagementridge 1398. The internal recess 1388 comprising the short busbar 1390connects to one standard length busbar 1390 a in an adjacent internalrecess 1388 via a channel 1384. The busbar prong 1380 is disposed withinthe channel 1384 such that the spring finger 1396 of the adjacentstandard length busbar 1390 a may contact and electrically couple withthe short busbar 1390, permitting an inserted wire contacting the shortbusbar 1390 b to electrically couple to a wiring lead inserted into thedistal end 1330 of the plug portion 1324.

Turning to FIG. 60, an inserted wire 1314 will deflect the spring finger1396 to electrically uncouple the adjacent short busbar 1390 b and thestandard length busbar 1390 a by forcing the spring finger 1396 of thestandard length busbar away from the busbar prong 1380, facilitating theseparation between inserted live fan and light wiring leads, permittingindividual control of the fan motor and light unit in a dual switchwiring scenario. In this manner, the selection of a single switch ordual switch wiring scenario can be accomplished by the mere insertion ofthe wiring lead into the proper port. The port can carry an appropriateindicia to indicate whether it is for a single or dual switch wiringscenario. This structure can be applied to other alternative wiringconfigurations where a jumper would traditional be used.

Electrical connectors having push-in ports allow for even quicker andeasier electrical connectivity when installing a ceiling fan. Push-inports having indicia allow an inexperienced installer to quicklyidentify the appropriate electrical connections to be made betweenwires. Furthermore, electrical connectors having jumper switchesfacilitate quick and easy installation of a ceiling fan where the fan orlighting element may have multiple control sources requiring theconnection of multiple live wires. The jumper switch allows an installerto easily adjust the electrical connections to the ceiling based upon asingle or dual control setup.

Turning to FIG. 61, an exploded view of an alternative downrod 1422 isshown. The downrod 1422 can be similar to the downrod 122 illustrated inFIGS. 21-23, however, the downrod 1422 in FIG. 61 comprises a gasket1424 and a flush-mounted mounting cover 1426 to cover an opening 1451rather than the slide cover 152. Similar elements from FIGS. 21-23 willbe identified with similar numerals increased by a value of 1300, exceptfor a set of wires identified by 1471 and a set of wiring nutsidentified by 1472. The opening 1451 is defined by a groove 1428 havingtwo mounting surfaces 1430 with a set of first holes 1432 disposed onboth longitudinal ends of the groove 1428 with respect to thelongitudinal length of the downrod 1422. The gasket 1424 comprises twogasket extensions 1434, each having a second hole 1436, adapted to bereceived at the mounting surfaces 1430. The gasket 1424 furthercomprises an aperture 1438 that can be used to feed wiring through thegasket 1424 to complete electrical connections. The mounting cover 1426comprises an arcuate body 1444 with an arcuate shape complementary tothat of the downrod 1422. The mounting cover 1426 comprises two coverextensions 1440 having third holes 1442, complementary to the mountingsurfaces 1430 and the first holes 1432. A set of screws 1446 can beinserted into the third holes 1442, through the second holes 1436 of thegasket 1424, and into the first holes 1432 such that the mounting cover1426 couples to the downrod 1422 with the gasket 1424 disposedtherebetween. The mounting cover 1426 is shaped to be received withinthe groove 1428, defining a flush mount with the downrod 1422 such thata smooth surface is defined between the downrod 1422 and the mountingcover 1426.

It can be appreciated that the mounting cover 1426 and the gasket 1424are removably attachable to the downrod 1422 for ease of removal formaking electrical wiring connections through the opening 1451. Thegasket 1424 defines a seal at the opening 1451, providing outdoor usefor the downrod 1422. The flush-mounted mounting cover 1426 combines asimple, aesthetically pleasing solution for making electricalconnections within a downrod, without the need to remove the downrodfrom a fan motor, or remove a ceiling fan from the ceiling or structure.It should be understood that as used herein the term “ceiling” of astructure is intended to include not only the conventional ceiling of abuilding or house, but also any other structure, which can support aceiling fan such as an exposed beam, post, or the like.

It should be further understood that as used herein the term “busbar” isintended to include any member constructed of electrically conductivematerial intended to electrically couple two electrically conductiveelements or facilitate electrical connectivity between two electricallyconductive elements.

It should be further understood that as used herein the term “hangerbracket” is intended to include any member adapted to mount the ceilingfan assembly to the ceiling and may comprise a bracket, mounting plate,or otherwise.

It thus is seen that a ceiling fan is now provided that overcomesproblems associated with the prior art. It should be understood thatmany modifications may be made to the disclosed embodiment describedherein without departure from the spirit and scope of the technology asdescribed herein.

While the invention has been described in connection with certainspecific embodiments thereof, it is to be understood that this is by wayof illustration and not of limitation. Reasonable variation andmodification are possible within the scope of the forgoing disclosureand drawings without departing from the spirit of the invention, whichis defined in the appended claims.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A downrod kit for a connecting a ceilingfan to a ceiling fan mount, the downrod kit comprising: a downrodincluding a sidewall defining an interior and extending between a firstend and a second end, with mounting holes provided in the sidewall andan access opening provided in the sidewall; and a set of electricalwires at least as long as the downrod; wherein the access openingprovides for accessing the set of electrical wires when passing throughthe interior of the downrod.
 2. The downrod kit of claim 1 furthercomprising a first electrical connector coupled to the set of electricalwires.
 3. The downrod kit of claim 2 further comprising a secondelectrical connector coupled to the set of electrical wires opposite ofthe first electrical connector.
 4. The downrod kit of claim 1 furthercomprising at least one wire nut coupled to the set of electrical wires.5. The downrod kit of claim 1 further comprising a cover removablyattached to the downrod at the access opening.
 6. A downrod assemblycomprising: a downrod including a sidewall defining an interior with aset of mounting holes in the sidewall and at least one access opening inthe sidewall, the downrod extending between a first end and a secondend; and a set of electrical wires having at least a first set of wiretips, the set of electrical wires extending through the interior of thedownrod and terminating exterior the first end and the second end. 7.The downrod assembly of claim 6 further comprising an electricalconnector coupled to the set of electrical wires.
 8. The downrodassembly of claim 7 wherein the electrical connector is a push-inelectrical connector, removably attaching to the set of electricalwires.
 9. The downrod assembly of claim 7 wherein the electricalconnector is one of a push-in electrical connectors or a set of wirenuts.
 10. The downrod assembly of claim 6 further comprising a ballmounted to one of the first end or the second end of the downrod. 11.The downrod assembly of claim 6 further comprising a cover removablyattached to the downrod at the access opening.
 12. An accessory downrodkit, consisting of: a downrod having a sidewall defining an interiorextending between a first end and a second end; and a set of electricalwires at least as long as the downrod having first wire tips and secondwire tips with the set of electrical wires extending along the interiorof the downrod and the first and second sets of wire tips terminatingexterior of the downrod; wherein the downrod further includes a set ofmounting holes provided in the sidewall and an access opening providedin the sidewall for accessing the set of electrical wires through thesidewall of the downrod.
 13. The accessory downrod kit of claim 12wherein the downrod further includes a cover removably attached to thedownrod at the access opening.
 14. The accessory downrod kit of claim 13wherein the cover circumscribes the downrod and is slidable along thedownrod.